News Release

Portions of Denali National Park and Preserve to be Closed to Snowmobile Use Due to Insufficient Snow beginning April 20

News Release Date: April 17, 2026
Contact: Amber Smigiel, Public Affairs Officer

DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE, Alaska – Beginning April 20, the superintendent of Denali National Park and Preserve will close portions of the park to snowmobile use for traditional activities because of inadequate snow cover.

The closure applies to the area from the Southwest Preserve to the West Fork of the Chulitna River.

Snow conditions remain adequate for traditional snowmobile use from the West Fork of the Chulitna River to Windy Creek and North of the Alaska Range. Riders, however, should anticipate additional closures as warming temperatures continue to reduce snowpack.

Park managers also advise riders to use caution. Open water is present in river corridors, and snow conditions are changing rapidly. Visitors are reminded that all lands within the former Mount McKinley National Park remain permanently closed to all snowmachine under federal regulation. Maps and GPS coordinates for the park and preserve boundary are available on the park website.

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About the National Park Service Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.

Tags: snowmobiling

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